There probably isn't a worse time that Watford could have faced Swansea so far this season than later this afternoon at the Liberty Stadium.

Before the arrival of Bob Bradley last week, the Swans lost five and drew the other, bizarrely against Chelsea, of the final six games of Francesco Guidolin's brief career in south Wales.

But it was perhaps more telling that his departure was not as a result of fan pressure against the affable Italian.

Swansea, once seen as the perfect example of a rags to riches club making it in the Premier League, were proudly supported by a fanbase with their own seat on the board - but they were, tellingly, left out of discussions about its sale to an American duo earlier this year.

The ill-feeling surrounding the takeover would perhaps have been lessened had the new owners invested in the club over the summer, but their squad is undoubtedly weaker as a result, losing long-term captain and dressing-room leader Ashley Williams, and a man who is difficult to replace.

Bafetimbi Gomis' departure signalled the way for Borja Baston to arrive from Atletico Madrid, but his solitary goal for the club had to wait until last week's 3-2 defeat at Arsenal.

Add to their losses the removal of Andre Ayew, probably the Swans' best player in the last few years, and in a year where most Premier League teams have strengthened, they have, if anything, gone backwards.

But perhaps Bradley's appointment heralds a new dawn. It is still far too early to say, but their performance at the Emirates last weekend showed more spirit than they have had in recent weeks, even against a rampant Gunners side.

LMA statistics show that the idea of new manager 'bounce' is more than a myth, but generally lasts a maximum of 12 games before reverting to type; although with Bradley being headhunted for both of his last two jobs, perhaps he can be the man to steady the ship.

Fernando Llorente should be fit to make his first start since September 24, with Jefferson Montero also likely to return, but Nathan Dyer will miss the game through injury.